Understanding Shipping Certifications

In the shipping industry, every shipment is unique. Some shipments require certain services that another shipment may not necessarily demand. The same goes for freight forwarders and carriers. A particular shipper might be able to handle one shipment, but not able to provide the same shipment services to another shipment. That is why it is important to understand different shipping certifications.

On of the most common certifications for shipping is IATA (International Air Transport Association). Being affiliated as an IATA allows important rules and regulations to be effectively followed for air freight shipments. This is a vital designation for a freight forwarder to have. Other emerging certifications from organizations are ISO (International Organization for Standardization) and CTPAT (Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism), although most shippers neccisarily do not need to have these certificates for most shipments made today.

A certification that you should keep an eye out for is NVOCC. An NVOCC (Non Vessel Operations Common Carrier) is one of the most important certifications in shipping ocean freight. Although NVOCCs do not operate shipping vessels, they can consolidate shipments, provide transportation with leading carriers and prepare bills of lading. Best of all, a NVOCC can best ensure that your shipment reaches its final destination on time in perfect condition because they might be responsible for loss or damage. Thus, a freight forwarder who is certified as an NVOCC would be a great catch to have for your shipments. Understanding shipping certifications can be crucial. Some certifications are not needed for a particular shipment, but a certification like NVOCC would be an extraordinary help for shipping internationally.